Help and Support

Talk to someone

It is difficult dealing with a gambling problem, especially if you are trying to do it on your own. You don't have to do it on your own. There are many services and people to turn to for help.

Sometimes talking to someone can be a huge relief if you are having trouble coping and feeling isolated and alone. When you're ready to talk to someone there are many people trained and able to help – or just ready to listen. Gambling may be just one of many problems in your life. Gambling Help Services know this and will work with you to gain back control of your life. There is also an intensive specialist therapy service to help overcome gambling addiction.

Remember you're not alone.

It's common for people to feel anxious about seeing a counsellor. Often people don't know what to expect. So what can you expect from counselling? To learn more about the process, read our counsellor stories here.

What kind of counselling and therapy is available?

There are a wide range of counselling and specialist therapy services available to people with a gambling problem (as well as family and friends). These services are all free, confidential and non-judgemental. Some are also available 24/7 (Gambling Helpline and Gambling Help Online).

Telephone CounsellingThe Gambling Helpline 1800 858 858 offers 24/7 counselling, support and information to anyone affected by gambling, including family and friends. The Gambling Helpline can organise an interpreter for you as well helping you deal with crises, relapses and other personal issues. The Gambling Helpline can also refer you to a Gambling Help Service if you would prefer to speak to someone face to face.

Face to Face Counselling and TherapyFree, confidential and professional counselling and therapy for individuals, couples, family and friends is available at one of the many Gambling Help Services across the State. Intensive specialist therapy is provided by the SA Intensive Gambling Help Service through PsychMed. Gambling Help Services also provide financial counselling to help you deal with money, debts and budgeting. Many also provide relationship counselling and can assist you with referrals for mental health, drug and alcohol, and legal issues. Call the Gambling Helpline 1800 858 858 for a referral to a Gambling Help Service or find a service in your local area here.

Online CounsellingFree and immediate 24/7 online support is available via Gambling Help Online. Real time chat is available online and 24/7 anywhere within Australia or use the email support service. To help you decide the best option for you, look at the pros and cons.

What can I expect from gambling counselling?

Counsellors assist people with gambling and other related issues (such as financial and relationship problems) in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment. Counselling is free to individuals, couples, family and friends. It's up to you how long you undertake counselling. There is no pressure or obligation. Counsellors within our Gambling Help Services are professional, friendly and non-judgemental. Most of our counsellors have been assisting people with gambling problems (or that of their family member or friend) for years. They understand how hard it can be to ask for help. Our counsellors are there to help and support you, not to judge you or make you feel bad. Some of our Gambling Help Services also have peer support groups where you can gain support and strength from people experiencing the same difficulties. Our Relationships Australia SA counsellor, Rosemary, tells us what people can expect from gambling counselling.

What can I expect from specialist therapy/intensive treatment?

The SA Intensive Gambling Help Service (SAIGHS) utilises Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), SAIGHS specialises in treating people with gambling problems who also experience complex associated issues. They use evidence-based treatment for co-morbidities such as depression, trauma, anxiety, drug and alcohol misuse, and relationship difficulties.

The services provided by SAIGHS are tailored to meet individual needs and they provide practical and useful assistance and information for individuals, partners, and families to help understand and change problematic gambling behaviours and associated issues.

Services are offered face-to-face in four metropolitan locations and through teleconferencing or video conferencing if this is more convenient for the client.

What can I expect from financial counselling?

Financial counselling helps people address money issues and debts. Financial counselling is free, safe and confidential. It's available to individuals, couples, family and friends. Financial counsellors help deal with debts and to budget and manage credit issues. For example, financial counsellors can help you to develop ways to budget and deal with debts, they are able to negotiate formal debt agreements and talk to creditors, check whether you're entitled to concessions and help you understand your rights and responsibilities. Financial counsellors can also help with accessing other forms of assistance.